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Integrative Medicine Classes

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

What is MBSR?Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an eight-week program, developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, that assists people who want to learn to use their own internal resources to respond more skillfully to stress, medical and psychological conditions, and promote healthy living. MBSR has been highly researched since its onset in 1979, and research strongly supports its effectiveness in improving difficulties in multiple areas of health and wellness. This program can be engaged in as a complement to current medical care, as well as for promotion of health and well-being.

What is Mindfulness?Mindfulness is paying attention on purpose to present-moment experiences (body sensations, emotions, thoughts) in a relaxed and non-judging way. Intentional present-moment awareness, developed through mindfulness meditation practices, helps us experience whatever is happening in our life as it unfolds with curiosity, non-judging attention, and compassion for ourselves and others. Engaging with our life in this manner helps us to become more skillful and creative in our responses, while gaining insight into how to free ourselves from habitual patterns of reacting.

About this Course:This course, modeled after the courses that have been offered at the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center for more than 30 years, consists of a free introductory class followed by eight weekly classes and one day-long workshop. Participants should bring comfortable clothing, layers for adjusting to the temperature and pillows for comfort. Chairs, yoga mats, blankets and cushions will be provided. This highly participatory course includes:

– Guided instruction in mindfulness meditation practices– Gentle stretching and mindful yoga– Group dialogue and discussions aimed at enhancing awareness in everyday life– Daily home practice, including guided meditations and practices for integrating mindfulness into daily life– Six meditation CDs and a home practice manual

Stan Eisenstein

About the Instructor:Stan Eisenstein, MSW, is the founder and principal teacher of the Columbia Insight Meditation Group. He is a teacher with the Insight Meditation Community of Washington and a graduate of the Meditation Teacher Training Institute with lead teacher Tara Brach. He has trained in MBSR with Jon Kabat-Zinn and Saki Santorelli. Stan is a primary mentor for the Power of Awareness online meditation training program, with teachers Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield. Stan has created and teaches courses in Mindfulness for Teens, Meeting Chronic Pain and Illness, and Deepening Practice for MBSR Graduates. Stan also offers daily guided group phone meditations through Telesangha. Stan has been meditating for over 30 years. He is a recently retired high school physics teacher.

Both courses will be held on the campus of MedStar Montgomery Medical Center. The cost for the class is $550 (some scholarships are available). Registration is required. For more information, please call 301-774-8881.

Registration Information

The cost of the eight-week class series plus the daylong retreat is $550 and advanced registration is required. Some scholarship is available; please contact Stan Eisenstein to apply. For more information, call 301-774-8881 or click here to register.

Credit Designation: MedStar Montgomery Medical Center designates this live activity for a maximum of 26.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

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